"We took the names of those who were not tested and agreed to cover the cost of the tests for them," said Pam Boan, guidance counselor at the Taylorsville school.

Students have raised almost $10,000 to help with Hladky's medical expenses. The Carroll County Children's Fund contributed $5,000, which paid for 100 tests.

Hladky's doctors at Johns Hopkins Hospital found a suitable donor about a month ago and were expected to do the transplant surgery yesterday.

The family asked the school to continue the drive for the many patients who have not found donors, particularly minority children.

"Our whole purpose is to raise awareness, not just get our son a donor," said George Hladky, Greg's father.

Because donors must be at least age 18, most of Hladky's schoolmates did not qualify.

"Many asked if a permission note from parents would let them donate," said Boan.

Rejection did not deter student enthusiasm, Boan said. Dressed in "Be a Life-Saver" T-shirts, students helped coordinate the drive, serving as guides, manning the refreshment tables and decorating the gym.

Largely because of the project, the school is a finalist for a national school spirit award.

"Our school spirit has just shot through the roof," said Boan. "Everyone is working together, and we have gotten a lot of help from the community."

St. Stephen's Reformed Episcopal Church, where Hladky is a member, has also joined the effort, raising almost $7,000 for the family.